DUI Lawyer in Schaumburg, IL

DUI and DWI Defense the Chicagoland Area

Being pulled over or arrested for driving under the influence (DUI) or driving while intoxicated (DWI) can cause present a number of challenges and jeopardize your future, your freedom, and your reputation, especially in felony DUI cases involving serious property damage or grievous bodily injury. Your license is also in jeopardy, which can make it especially hard to attend school, go to work, or complete necessary and everyday errands. 

The state of Illinois comes down hard on DUI and DWI convictions, even for first-time offenders, and it is important to remember that anything, including marijuana and prescription medications, can lead to a DWI charge. If you have been convicted of a misdemeanor DUI as a first offense, you can have your driver’s license suspended for up to a year and face thousands of dollars in fines and court fees, and even jail time.

If you’re charged with DUI or DWI and face the threat of license suspension or worse, call The Law Office of Gregory Walker at (312) 604-2250. The firm offers free consultations to help you get started.

Penalties for DUI or DWI Convictions in Illinois

Law enforcement and the State of Illinois do not look kindly on DUI offenders and have a range of resources and evidence, including breathalyzer and blood tests, to prove your guilt.

You can be found guilty of a DUI or DWI if your blood alcohol content (BAC) is .08 or higher, or if you have more than 5 nanograms of THC in your bloodstream. When you are charged with DUI, you are given the option of taking a blood-alcohol test. If you refuse, your driver’s license will be suspended for 12 months.

The majority of first and second DUI charges are Class A misdemeanors that carry a jail sentence of up to one year and a fine of up to $2,500. The court costs alone could be more than what you pay in fines.

Apart from criminal charges, DUI convictions also carry civil penalties, such as a summary suspension when your driver’s license is revoked for a mandatory 6 months, or 12 months if you refuse the breathalyzer test.